Four arrested over £1m fraud allegations at Police Federation

Four people have been arrested in connection with allegations of fraud within the Police Federation. The federation, which represents most of the 125,000 police officers in England and Wales, asked Surrey Police to investigate potential fraudulent activity relating to accounts held by the Federation's Constables' Central Committee.

Surrey Police have now said two men in their 50s and two men in their 40s have been arrested on suspicion of fraud under Section Four of the Fraud Act and conspiracy to defraud. The allegation relates to concerns about the transfer of around £1m to a charitable account in August 2015.

Detective Superintendent Karen Mizzi, said: "We are carrying out a detailed and thorough investigation into allegations of fraudulent activity involving significant amounts of money.

"As the allegation was only reported to us on Wednesday, 16 March our enquiries are at an early stage but specialist officers, including our Economic Crime Unit, are investigating to establish whether any offences have occurred.

"The Police Federation reported the matter to us as their headquarters is in Leatherhead and we are their local force but to be clear those arrested are not Surrey Police officers. Our Professional Standards Department is currently in liaison with colleagues in relevant forces to inform them of the arrest of their officers.

"Due to the nature of the allegation, and those arrested being serving officers, Surrey Police has notified the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) and will also be in liaison with the Charity Commission going forward."

Prior to the launch of the fraud investigation, the Police Federation confirmed the resignation of its vice-chair Will Riches, but did not give any reasons why. A spokesperson added: "Police Federation of England and Wales contacted Surrey Police to ask them to investigate potential fraudulent activity, relating to accounts held by the Federation's Constables' Central Committee.

"The issue was identified by the PFEW itself and we are fully cooperating with their initial investigation which is being undertaken to determine whether any offences have been committed. Until those enquiries are complete it would be inappropriate to comment further."